Many of us are aware of the green industry standard called LEED, basically it is a set of guideline that aim to help buildings be more efficient and eco-friendly. Even though there are many who have jumped on board, there has been a dull roar in the background for quite some time now; People saying that this standard is not stringent enough, misses the mark completely, etc.

Well just a few days ago Henry Gifford filled a class action against the US Green Building Council.

A lawyer put in plain language when she said:

The allegations are essentially fraud and false advertising, an anti-trust claim and a RICO claim thrown in for good measure. His theory is that the USGBC has falsely claimed that its rating system makes buildings save energy, and that building owners have spent more money to have their buildings certified, that professionals have gotten worthless professional credentials and people in general have been duped into thinking LEED has meaning.

She goes on further saying this case has merit, but the plaintiff might not be the best suited for this case. Gifford, a noted environmentalist, shared his reasoning behind his decision to file stating that he was afraid that if someone within the green community didn’t stand up and provide a check and balance, outsiders – possibly from big oil, “drill baby, drill” camp – could use this as ammo to discredit green initiatives, especially efforts to live more responsibly.